Julie Payette sworn in as Governor General of Canada

By: Meaghan Wray

October 02, 2017

The Queen’s new representative in Canada, Governor General Julie Payette, delivered a powerful speech on climate change, migration and poverty at her official inauguration in Ottawa on
Oct 2. Prime Minister
Justin Trudeau and his wife Sophie were on hand to congratulate
Julie on becoming the country’s 29th governor general.

Monday’s induction comes a few weeks after Julie travelled
to Scotland to have her first audience with Her Majesty at Balmoral Castle.

Dear Canadians, friends from around the world: experience this installation day with me, as I begin my mandate as Governor General.

The 53-year-old holds an impressive résumé as an astronaut,
engineer and administrator. During her address in the Senate chamber, she acknowledged
the importance of banding together to rid the world of inequalities.

She spoke from the heart and without notes: “I’m a true believer
in the strength of teamwork, in the power of dreams and in the absolute
necessity of a support structure. Anyone can accomplish anything and rise to
the challenge as long as they are willing to work with others, to let go of the
personal agenda, to reach a higher goal and to do what is right for the common
good. This is exactly what I hope my mandate as the governor general will
reflect.”

The Quebec native was surrounded by 400 guests at the
swearing in ceremony, including her parents, siblings and her 14-year-old son
Laurier. She later shared that she asked her son first before taking on the new
role as GG.

The former astronaut also addressed the nation’s Indigenous
leaders, honouring the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, which
aims to establish recognition and respect, and acknowledge the true history of
Canada. “It is a good thing that we finally decided again to listen to their
wisdom,” she declared.

Julie doesn’t just walk the walk; she talks the talk, too.
Her message of inclusivity and teamwork is reflected in her ability to speak
six different languages, as well as her well-rounded set of interests: running,
skiing, deep-sea diving and flying planes. Justin acknowledged this strong work
ethic and passion, “Whether as Canada’s chief astronaut or as an Olympic flag
bearer you represent the very best of what it means to be Canadian, to serve
Canada with aplomb and integrity.”